Hoary Bat

Galapagos Wildlife: Hoary Bat © Daniel Neal

Hoary Bat © Daniel Neal

Species Data

Common Name Hoary Bat
Scientific Name Lasiurus cinerius
Spanish Name Murciélago ceniciento
Conservation Status

Galapagos Graphics: IUCN Red List Least Concern © Dan Wright

Least Concern 

Endemic/Native/Introduced

Native 

Size 13 to 14.5 cm length, 40 cm wingspan
Predators Hawk and owls
Food Insectivore (moths)
Animal Class Mammal

Species Overview

The hoary bat is often considered one of North America’s most beautiful bats. It is found throughout North and South America. Together with a close relative of South America’s red bat, it is one of just two bats to inhabit the Galapagos Islands. The hoary bat roosts in mangroves and caves, coming out at night to hunt for their insect prey. They hunt over open areas and lakes, using echolocation to find and catch their prey.

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